Production Manager – Food & Beverage | Lean & Continuous Improvement

  • Ayer, Massachusetts, United States
  • Full-Time
  • On-Site
  • 116,000-135,000 USD / Year

Job Description:

Our client is seeking a Production Manager to oversee all manufacturing operations within a high‑volume food and beverage production environment. This leader is responsible for meeting safety, quality, throughput, and cost targets while developing a strong, engaged team and driving continuous improvement across all production processes. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on leadership, Lean experience, and a proven track record managing production teams in regulated environments.

Onsite | No Visa Sponsorship | Relocation Assistance: Limited

Requirements:

  • Perform additional duties as needed to support plant operations.
  • Lead daily production operations to achieve safety, quality, productivity, and cost objectives.
  • Monitor performance using KPIs and Daily Management Systems; identify trends and implement corrective actions.
  • Apply PDCA, root‑cause analysis, and other structured problem‑solving tools to resolve issues and drive sustainable improvements.
  • Champion Lean Manufacturing initiatives to increase throughput, reduce waste, and improve scheduling efficiency.
  • Supervise, coach, and develop production team members; foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning.
  • Ensure compliance with GMPs, SOPs, OSHA, FDA, and all applicable regulatory and quality standards.
  • Oversee material availability, product quality, and on‑time delivery through effective resource planning.
  • Facilitate daily and weekly production reviews to align teams with short‑ and long‑term operational goals.
  • Support new product launches and cross‑functional initiatives with business, quality, and engineering teams.
  • Lead workforce planning, training, and succession development to build operational flexibility.

Qualifications (Must-Haves)

  • Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high‑performing teams.
  • Minimum 5 years of production management experience in food, beverage, biotech, or pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Strong working knowledge of GMPs, SOPs, OSHA, FDA, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Experience using KPIs, Daily Management Systems, and structured problem‑solving methodologies.
  • All education levels will be considered; equivalent practical experience is fully acceptable.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience supporting new product introductions.
  • Strong communication and cross‑functional leadership skills.
  • Background in high‑volume, fast‑paced manufacturing environments.

Benefits & Perks:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee discount programs
  • Competitive salary with performance‑based bonus